London’s hotel dining scene has undergone a remarkable transformation, ditching the days of bland, generic eateries serving a captive audience. Today, hotels are showcasing cutting-edge culinary experiences that rival independent restaurants, attracting diners beyond just hotel guests. This shift is driven by hoteliers seeking to boost revenue and establish their properties as culinary destinations.
Luxury Reimagined: The Dorchester, Savoy Grill, and The Connaught
For years, the
Dorchester
held a special allure, a grand London hotel with a storied past. The recent renovation brought with it two Michelin-starred restaurants, elevating its dining options. However, while the food is exquisite, the design feels more like an airport lounge than a grand hotel, leaving me longing for a touch of the hotel’s unique history.
The Savoy Grill
, another London institution, has also undergone a revamp, this time under the watchful eye of Gordon Ramsay. While the classic Beef Wellington remains a highlight, the legendary dining room has lost its distinct character. The new décor feels more like a themed nightclub than a homage to its glamorous past.
In stark contrast,
The Connaught
in Mayfair has embraced its heritage, preserving its elegant interior. Designer John Heah has created a cozy, timeless ambiance with comfort food to match. This is a place where you can savor a classic Hereford Sirloin and a unique cheese and whisky pairing, enveloped in a sense of history.
Grand Interiors and Global Flavors: St Pancras Renaissance, The Standard, and The Langham
The
St Pancras
Renaissance Hotel boasts a stunning neo-gothic interior that sets the stage for the Midland Grand restaurant. The menu pays homage to the hotel’s close proximity to Eurostar, offering classic French dishes that are perfect for a pre-journey indulgence.
Across the street, The Standard Hotel offers a different vibe with Decimo, its Spanish and Mexican rooftop restaurant. Enjoy delicate tacos and tender sirloin while soaking in breathtaking sunset views over St Pancras’s iconic spires.
The Langham Hotel
, a symbol of Victorian elegance, has added a Caribbean-inspired restaurant,
The Good Front Room
. Chef Dom Taylor, known for his innovative approach to cuisine, has created a lively space that serves delicious Caribbean dishes and a refreshing fruit punch that has become a local favorite.
Dramatic Views and Culinary Delights: Joia, The Game Bird, and Pavyllon
For those who crave spectacular views, Joia on the 15th floor of the new art-otel overlooking Battersea Power Station offers breathtaking panoramas. The menu features Catalonian classics by two-Michelin-starred Portuguese chef Henrique Sa Pessoa, though the dramatic setting comes with a hefty price tag.
Tucked away in a quiet corner of St James’s, The Game Bird at the Stafford Hotel offers an ultra-British dining experience. The wood-panelled setting is a haven for well-sourced British cuisine with a star attraction – the melt-in-your-mouth deep-fried cod. After indulging in a delightful meal, be sure to explore the hotel’s historic 400-year-old wine cellar, a treasure trove of fine vintages.
The Four Seasons Hotel’s Pavyllon showcases a modern approach to French cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno. The open kitchen allows diners to witness the artistry behind the complex dishes, and the £148 tasting menu features carefully crafted portions of red mullet and succulent lamb chops.
Trendy Hotels, Diverse Cuisines: Sette, Nobu, and Laurel’s on the Roof
Many of London’s trendy hotels have embraced the culinary revolution, adding unique and diverse dining options to their portfolios. Sette at Bulgari Knightsbridge, an offshoot of Manhattan’s Scarpetta, offers authentic Italian cuisine with a touch of Manhattan swagger.
Nobu, renowned for its signature dishes, has opened its latest outpost in a hotel off Portman Square. The vast dining room may feel a bit cavernous, but the sushi is as consistently excellent as ever.
Laurel’s on the Roof atop the Mondrian hotel channels the relaxed vibes of California’s hippie canyon. This rooftop spot boasts a swimming pool and a classic California brunch menu featuring buttermilk pancakes loaded with delicious toppings.
Historic Charm and Modern Flair: NoMad and Penelope’s
The
NoMad
, a stunning conversion of the former Bow Street magistrate’s court, is one of London’s most captivating spaces. The iconic courtroom where Oscar Wilde’s fate was sealed has been meticulously preserved, while the soaring glass conservatory restaurant provides a breathtaking backdrop for Chef Michael Yates’s farm-to-table menu.
Across Covent Garden, the Amano Hotel’s Penelope’s restaurant combines the vibrant flavors of Spain with the hearty fare of Israel. The stylish dining room transforms into a dance floor on Isramani nights, offering a lively blend of music and international cuisine.
A Sweet Ending: Cakes and Bubbles at the Café Royal
For shoppers in need of a treat, Cakes and Bubbles at the
Café Royal
offers a delightful array of delicate pastries paired with sparkling wine. This charming spot encapsulates the essence of London’s hotel dining scene – a delightful mix of history, elegance, and culinary innovation.
With its diverse culinary landscape and commitment to experiential dining, London’s hotel restaurants are truly thriving. From classic British fare to global flavors and dramatic views, there’s something for every taste and budget. So grab a seat, enjoy the ambiance, and indulge in the culinary adventures that await you in London’s hotels.
